ngaa4 caat3 sou1牙擦蘇牙擦苏
Definition
A boastful or arrogant person.
How it's used
Originating from a character in the Wong Fei-hung film series known for his protruding teeth and arrogant personality, this term has evolved into a common descriptor for anyone who is overly conceited or loudmouthed. It functions as a noun to label a person, but it is frequently used in a predicative way to describe someone's behavior. The term carries a slightly mocking tone and is best reserved for informal settings among friends or peers.
Measure word
go3個goExamples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with the adjective 牙擦, which describes the act of being boastful or arrogant. While 牙擦蘇 refers specifically to the person who acts that way, 牙擦 is the quality itself. Using 牙擦蘇 to describe an action rather than a person will sound unnatural to native speakers.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
